What must police do before approaching a suspect?

Before approaching a suspect, police officers are required to make a proper announcement. This procedure is vital as it serves multiple purposes; primarily, it informs the suspect of the police presence and the nature of the encounter, which is critical for ensuring the situation is handled lawfully and safely. A proper announcement helps to de-escalate potential tensions and allows the suspect to comply with the lawful commands of the officers, thereby fostering a more controlled environment.

While displaying a badge and showing identification are important for establishing authority and legitimacy, they are not the primary steps outlined in police training regarding approaching a suspect. Requesting backup, on the other hand, is an operational decision that may be necessary depending on the circumstances but does not specifically relate to the initial approach and communication with the suspect. Proper announcement aligns with procedural justice and the responsibilities of officers to communicate clearly and effectively while maintaining safety for all parties involved.